One of the arguements [Plato] uses against [democracy].

[Ruling], he sez, is a [craft] just like any other, in that those trained in it will do much better than those who are not.

In a democracy, "everyone" can [vote] on how to run things. This is as silly as letting everyone vote on what to do about your cardiac arrest or a broken carborator. These things are better left to the experts, not the rabble.

Plato believed that the ones best suited to rule would have 50 years of training: 30 years of basics, like [literacy], [music], [mathmatics], [military] training, and [physical training]. Then 5 years of [philosophy], 15 of [military service], and viola!, you're fit to rule. The philosophy is of crucial importance; if you spend enough time meditating on [Plato's forms|the forms], you will recognize "good" when you see it.

Of course, because these people will be [smart], they will be able to think of better things to do than rule over a buch of unruly humans. But they will be enlightened, and see it as their unhappy [duty].

To make sure that they do not enjoy it too much, they would not be allowed any [private property].

[Aristocracy] rules.

The craft analogy